Key Points

• Over 30 residents abducted in a week in Katsina despite peace deal with bandits.
• Protesters block major highway after fresh attacks in Malumfashi.
• Security forces accused of shooting protesters as tensions rise.

Tension spread across three Katsina communities after another night raid left one person dead and several others abducted.

The violence has triggered street protests as residents accuse authorities of neglecting their safety.

The attack happened late Monday in Danjanku, one of the hardest-hit areas in Malumfashi Local Government.

Witnesses said armed men stormed homes around midnight and kidnapped at least 17 people. One victim was shot and killed while resisting.

Third Attack in a Week

Residents said it was the third assault in less than a week. More than 30 people have been taken from Danjanku, Dantashi, and Dayi despite an existing peace deal between local leaders and the gunmen.

A villager described the raid as “terrifying,” saying the bandits moved freely through homes, dragging families from their beds.

“They came again last night, killed one person, and abducted several others,” said Village Head Tanimu Almakiyayi. “We’re living in fear here.”

A security source confirmed the attack and said troops were searching for the kidnappers.

Protests Turn Violent

The latest incident sparked protests on Tuesday morning. Hundreds of youths blocked the Funtua–Katsina highway, demanding protection from authorities.

What began as a peaceful rally turned chaotic when security personnel tried to disperse the crowd.

Residents alleged soldiers opened fire, killing one protester and injuring two others. Demonstrations later spread to nearby Dantashi and Dayi, where crowds set tyres ablaze and barricaded the roads.

One protester called the unrest “a cry for help that turned tragic.”

Calm Restored After Traditional Mediation

Traditional rulers and elders later intervened to restore order. By late afternoon, the roads were cleared, but tension lingered.

Attempts to reach the Katsina State Police spokesperson were unsuccessful.

Residents said attacks have grown more frequent in Malumfashi and Bakori areas. Many claimed bandits still collect “taxes” from farmers before allowing them to harvest.

“They still demand levies,” a farmer said. “Even after paying, we can’t sleep peacefully.”

Katsina has battled years of violence from armed groups across Nigeria’s northwest. Despite peace deals and military operations, many rural communities remain under siege.

The latest attacks have deepened frustration as residents urge both state and federal governments to take stronger action against the gunmen.